By: JurmoloyaRava
Milkha Singh the Legendary Indian athlete has been appointed as the World Health Organization (WHO) Goodwill Ambassador for Physical Activity in South-East Asia Region, the global health body confirmed.
Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia, on appointing Milkha Singh said, “Promoting physical activity for health is an important intervention, which is expected to get a significant boost in the Region with the support of octogenarian Milkha Singh.
It is important to do regular exercise and physical activity as it helps to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer – diseases that are now increasingly troubling people all across the world.
Adding to the previous statement Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh said, “It is estimated that around 8.5 million people die due to non-communicable diseases every year in World Health Organization in South-East Asia Region. A disturbing of about 70 percent of boys, 80 percent of girls and nearly 33 percent adults in the region report lack of physical activity which is becoming a common feature of modern life.”
Physical activity is not only gainful but also has a lasting impact when applied strategically. WHO has been advocating for physical activity as a “best buy” intervention for reducing the risk of deaths due to NCDs.
They also recommend at least 60 minutes of daily physical activity for children and 150 minutes of weekly activity for adults to stave off non-communicable diseases. Physical activity helps those aged 65 years and above to maintain cognitive functioning and reduce the risk of depression. To facilitate this, WHO has also been advocating with governments to create public spaces for recreational and organised sport.
Then adding to that she said, “Whatever the age group, gender, physical ability, or socio-economic background, being physically active is an effective way to ensure a healthy and productive life.”
[TheChamp-Sharing]
